I'm going to Laos to apply for a 60 day tourist visa. I was wondering if it is possible to deposit my passport+visa application on day 1 and then travel up to Luang prabang and then pick it up on the way back. I'm on quite a tight schedule and would prefer not to stay a night in VT if possible.

Does anyone have any experience with doing something similar?

Its actually the normal process of acquiring a tourist visa anywhere. Day 1 fill out application and submit it along with your passport to the officer and wait for your name to be called an pay for the fee if there is. (Thailand  Visa Promotion up to March 2011: free 120 day tourist visa/double entry you need to  get out of the country every 60 days)<BR>Take your reciept and comeback the following at 1pm to pick up your passport.

If you pay the guys sitting out front in the tent they will get your passport back to you the SAME DAY around 4:00 PM with no overnight stay

Price is what ever you can negotiate

I would not advise travel anywhere without a passport.

Travelling in Northern Laos without a passport is a little risky, expecially if you'll be driving around anywhere. You may have to deal with police or military checkpoints and they may ask to see it. Although some officials are reasonable there are others who will probably take the opportunity to fine you or worse.

If you do attempt it, make sure you have a copy of your passport ID page, Laos visa page, and page with the entry stamp. Also have your receipt which will be issued at the embassy.

Edited July 5, 201016 yr by LanxangBillybob